Peguche Overview

By Paula Newton

Just a stone's throw from Otavalo, Peguche makes a welcome break for those looking for some peace and quiet after a hard day's bargaining in Otavalo Market. The town is sleepier than it once was, with the train tracks abandoned since the late 1980s. Peguche is friendly and welcoming, if a little ramshackle.

The town is home to a pretty waterfall, along with a number of stalls that line the path to the entrance. Here, vendors will try to persuade you to part with your cash before you head to Otavalo. Within the town, a number of musicians reside. You may see them playing their pan pipes in your hotel, accompanied by dancing local children. There are not a large range of facilities in Peguche, with just a couple of hotels, and restaurants largely adjoined to the accommodation possibilities, and just one or two grocery stores in the center, so stock up on anything that you might need from Otavalo.